Entertainment Guide for the Gulangyu Cruise Ship

Compared to international cruise liners like Royal Caribbean and Costa Cruises, the entertainment facilities on the "Gulangyu" ship are not as extensive. However, considering it's a five-day, four-night short voyage, it offers all the essentials, and some experiences are surprisingly delightful✨ 🎯 Sports & Outdoor Activities ・Three swimming pools: Two are deep enough for adults, and one is a shallow pool suitable for kids. Lifeguards are on duty, and life jackets are provided, ensuring safety. However, there are no water slides or water parks, leaning more towards a relaxing vibe. ・Ping pong and half-court basketball: Tables and courts are available, but you may need to queue or arrive early to secure a spot during busy times. ・English-style floor curling: The area seems newly renovated, but there were no curling stones or pushers available at the time, possibly not fully operational yet. ・Ship deck (7th floor): You can walk around the ship, very close to the sea level. It's especially pleasant during the day when it's not sunny. We were lucky to spot 🐬 dolphins, giant jellyfish, and even glowing "blue tears" 🌌—a truly surprising experience! ・12th/13th floor deck: Perfect for stargazing and evening strolls, with cool breezes and stunning views. ・Bow and stern: The daily cruise newsletter lists sunrise and sunset times. Make sure to secure a spot early if you don't want to miss these moments📸. 🎭 Performances & Entertainment ・Immersive performances: "Five-act" shows appear at different times throughout the ship, not confined to the theater but integrated into everyday spaces—a creative touch. ・Main theater shows: Two large-scale musical performances and one live band show, primarily featuring English musicals. While not top-tier, they exceeded expectations. The performers even sang in Chinese, though their pronunciation wasn't perfect, their effort was commendable. ・Cinema: 3-4 movies are screened daily, including Chow Yun-fat classics and Hollywood blockbusters like "Mission Impossible" and "Operation Red Sea." However, the sound system is average, and the atmosphere can be dull—front-row seats are recommended. 📚 Quiet Activities & Facilities ・Library: Limited books but diverse genres, including children's literature and adult collections. ・Public lounge areas: Newly renovated and comfortable. You can relax here whether you make a purchase or not, and no one will pressure you. If you do buy something, the service is excellent. ・Gym: Open during specific hours, with decent equipment. ・Beauty/Spa services (additional charges apply). ・Free activities: Trivia games, Baduanjin exercises, dance lessons, and baijiu tasting—great for those who enjoy mental challenges or socializing. ・Board games: Free playtime available, as well as paid private game rooms. ・Duty-free shops: Perfumes, skincare, snacks, tobacco, and alcohol are available—small but practical. ・Kids' play area: Parents can let their children have fun safely 👶. 💬 Summary: Great value for money! While it lacks large-scale water parks or roller coasters, the activities are thoughtfully arranged for a short cruise. Our biggest surprise was spotting dolphins, jellyfish, and the dreamy "blue tears" 🌊✨. We highly recommend spending more time on the deck—it's a breathtaking blend of sea and sky, with occasional rare sights to cherish. Travel Diary